What Is the Abortion Pill?
If you're facing an unexpected pregnancy in Florida, you may be researching your options and wondering whether the abortion pill is right for you. Before making a decision, it's important to understand how the abortion pill works, its potential side effects, and the role an ultrasound can play in protecting your health.
We believe every woman deserves accurate medical information so she can make an informed decision about her pregnancy.
At The Pregnancy Centers, with locations in Sanford and Winter Park, Florida, we provide accurate information about the abortion pill, what you should do before an abortion, such as confirming a viable pregnancy with an ultrasound, and all of your pregnancy options if your pregnancy is viable.
Our services are free and confidential, regardless of your race, background, or income. We are a judgment-free place where you can take a moment, get the facts you need, and make the best decision for your health and future.
Abortion Pill (Medication Abortion)
The term "abortion pill" refers to a medication abortion, which uses two drugs to end an existing pregnancy. Medication abortion is typically used during the early weeks of pregnancy.¹
The process generally involves:
Taking the first medication, mifepristone, which blocks the hormone progesterone needed to sustain a pregnancy.
Taking the second medication, misoprostol, which causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue.¹
The abortion pill is different from morning-after pills (also called emergency contraception). Emergency contraception is intended to prevent pregnancy before it occurs, while the abortion pill is used after a pregnancy has already been established. 5
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
The abortion pill process usually takes place over one to several days.¹
Step 1: Mifepristone
Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone necessary for pregnancy to continue. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus begins to break down, and the pregnancy can no longer develop.¹
Step 2: Misoprostol
Misoprostol is typically taken 24 to 48 hours later. This medication causes cramping and bleeding as the uterus empties its contents.¹
The experience can vary from person to person. Some women experience symptoms similar to a heavy menstrual period, while others experience more intense cramping and bleeding.
The abortion process may take several hours or several days to complete.
What Are the Side Effects of the Abortion Pill?
Like any medication, the abortion pill can cause side effects. Common side effects may include:¹
- Cramping
- Vaginal bleeding
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Fever or chills
- Headache
Bleeding and cramping are expected during the process, but they can sometimes be heavier than anticipated.
You should seek medical attention immediately if you experience:²
- Excessive bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- High fever
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Symptoms that worsen instead of improve
Every woman's health situation is different, which is one reason why a medical evaluation before making a decision can be important.
What Should I Know Before Ordering Abortion Pills Online?
Some women consider ordering abortion pills online because they believe it may be more convenient or private. However, there are important factors to consider before doing so.
Confirm the Pregnancy
A positive pregnancy test confirms the presence of pregnancy hormones, but it does not provide important medical information such as:²
- How far along you are
- Whether the pregnancy is developing normally
- Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus
Rule Out an Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube.³
An ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency and cannot be treated with the abortion pill. If left undiagnosed, it can become life-threatening.³
Understand Your Options
Before making any pregnancy decision, it is helpful to gather accurate medical information and understand all of your options. Taking time to learn about your pregnancy can help you make a confident and informed choice.
What Is an Ultrasound and Why Do I Need One Before an Abortion?
An ultrasound is a medical imaging procedure that uses sound waves to create pictures of the pregnancy.²
An ultrasound can provide important information about your pregnancy, including:
Confirming Viability
Not every positive pregnancy test results in a viable pregnancy. An ultrasound can help determine whether the pregnancy is developing and whether a heartbeat is present.²
Determining Gestational Age
Knowing how far along you are is important because medication abortion is generally used during the early weeks of pregnancy.¹
Identifying the Location of the Pregnancy
An ultrasound can determine whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus and help identify an ectopic pregnancy that may require emergency medical treatment.³
Providing Important Medical Information
The information obtained during an ultrasound can help you better understand your pregnancy and discuss your options with a healthcare provider.
Free Pregnancy Services in Florida
If you have a positive pregnancy test and are considering your options, our clinics are here to help.
We provide free and confidential services designed to help you better understand your pregnancy and make an informed decision. Our caring team can answer your questions, discuss your options, and provide information about available resources.
Whether you're looking for pregnancy testing, information about the abortion pill, or support as you navigate an unexpected pregnancy, we're here for you.
Contact The Pregnancy Centers today to schedule your free pregnancy test and limited ultrasound at our Sanford or Winter Park locations. Our caring team is here to provide accurate information about the abortion pill and all of your pregnancy options so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Abortion Pill
Is the abortion pill the same as Plan B?
No. The abortion pill and morning-after pills (also called emergency contraception) are different medications. Plan B is emergency contraception that may help prevent pregnancy before it occurs. The abortion pill is used after a pregnancy has already been established to end an existing pregnancy.(5)
How far along can you take the abortion pill?
The abortion pill is typically prescribed during the early weeks of pregnancy. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), mifepristone is approved for use through 70 days (10 weeks) of gestation.(7)
An ultrasound can determine how far along you are, confirm that the pregnancy is located in the uterus, and help you understand the options available based on your stage of pregnancy.(1)
Why do I need an ultrasound before taking the abortion pill?
An ultrasound provides important medical information that a pregnancy test cannot. It can confirm whether the pregnancy is viable, determine how far along you are, and identify whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus or is ectopic. This information can help protect your health before making a pregnancy decision.(2)
Can the abortion pill treat an ectopic pregnancy?
No. The abortion pill does not treat an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the pregnancy develops outside the uterus and requires immediate medical attention. An ultrasound can help identify this potentially life-threatening condition.(3)
What are the side effects of the abortion pill?
Common side effects may include cramping, vaginal bleeding, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, fever or chills, and headache. If you experience excessive bleeding, severe abdominal pain, a high fever, foul-smelling discharge, or symptoms that worsen instead of improve, seek medical care immediately.(1,4)
Is it safe to order abortion pills online?
The FDA Does Not Recommend Buying Mifepristone Online. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against purchasing abortion pills from unregulated online sources, especially those based outside the United States.(6)
Ordering medication from websites that are not connected to licensed healthcare providers or accredited pharmacies increases the risk of receiving counterfeit, expired, or incorrect medications. These products may be ineffective and could pose serious health risks. Purchasing the abortion pill online also means you may not receive appropriate medical evaluation, follow-up care, or guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.(6)
Before considering the abortion pill, it is important to confirm your pregnancy with an ultrasound. A pregnancy test alone cannot determine how far along you are, whether the pregnancy is viable, or whether it is ectopic. Having this information can help you better understand your pregnancy and make a more informed decision.(2,3)
What free services do The Pregnancy Centers provide?
The Pregnancy Centers provide free and confidential pregnancy services, including:
- Pregnancy testing
- Limited obstetrical ultrasound
- Pregnancy options education
- Information about the abortion pill and abortion procedures
- Community referrals and support resources
While we do not provide abortion services or the abortion pill, we can confirm your pregnancy, determine how far along you are, and explain the different abortion methods based on gestational age. Our goal is to provide the medical information and support you need to make an informed decision about your pregnancy.
Do I need insurance to receive services?
No. All of our pregnancy services are provided at no cost. Insurance is not required, and services are available regardless of your income.
Are your services confidential?
Yes. We understand that an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming, and your privacy matters. All of our services are free and confidential, so no insurance is required or billed. Our caring staff is committed to providing a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free environment where you can ask questions, explore your options, and receive the support you need. If you have privacy concerns or need additional accommodations to protect your confidentiality, please let us know, we'll do our best to help.
Where are The Pregnancy Centers located?
The Pregnancy Centers have convenient locations in Sanford and Winter Park, Florida. If you think you may be pregnant or have questions about the abortion pill, contact us today to schedule your free appointment.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Medical Abortion
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): Ultrasound Exams
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): Ectopic Pregnancy FAQ
- Cleveland Clinic: Medication Abortion
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): Difference Between the Morning-After Pill and the Abortion Pill
- FDA.GOV: The FDFA Does Not Recommend Buying Mifepristone Online
- FDA.GOV: Information about Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation
